RUKIGA, UGANDA – The Minister of State for Defence, Hon. Huda Oleru Abason, has commended UPDF leadership for grounding the 45th Tarehe Sita celebrations in community-focused activities, emphasizing the army’s bond with citizens.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Presiding as the Guest of Honour at the launch of the anniversary activities in Rukiga District on Wednesday, Minister Oleru lauded the UPDF’s evolution into a formidable and respected force.
The event, held at St. Paul Secondary School playground in Bukinda Sub-County, marked the beginning of a two-week army activities in the district dedicated to national service and reflection.
Minister Oleru praised Uganda’s regionally respected army for securing national stability and said Tarehe Sita laid the foundation for this cherished peace, earning the country respect from its neighbors.
“Uganda has developed a strong army that is widely recognized across the East African region for its unique role in stabilizing national security. Tarehe Sita was the foundation of peace in Uganda, a peace so cherished that it has earned us respect from our neighbors,” stated Minister Oleru.
The 45th Tarehe Sita Anniversary will be held on February 6th, 2026 under the theme: “Preserving the Gains of the Revolution and Honouring the Sacrifice of the Freedom Fighters: A Call for National Unity, Peace, and Socio-Economic Transformation.”
Representing the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, Lt. Gen. Sam Okiding, affirmed that Tarehe Sita recognizes the foundational sacrifices made for Uganda’s freedom.
He stated that the commemoration reaffirms the UPDF’s commitment to protecting every national gain, especially the nation’s enduring peace enjoyed in recent years.
“This commemoration reaffirms that the UPDF is equipped and utterly committed to protecting every gain achieved, especially the enduring peace Uganda has enjoyed in recent years,” Lt. Gen. Okiding said.
Speaking after the launch, the UPDF Chief Political Commissar, Maj. Gen. Henry Masiko, announced the launch of an extensive civic action programme for Rukiga District.
He detailed that activities will include medical camps at Mparo and Kamwezi HC IVs, Cleaning of Towns, tree planting, and renovations to schools and health units.
“We are rolling out a number of activities, including medical camps, town cleaning, tree planting, building school toilets, and renovating health units,” Maj. Gen. Masiko announced.
The UPDF’s community-centred approach underscores its continued commitment to national development beyond its security mandate, honouring the legacy of the freedom fighters by directly contributing to the socio-economic well-being of the Ugandan people.
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